The Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) calls on city pounds to prioritize the welfare of impounded dogs and cats as Tropical Storm Kristine hits the country.
Photo: PAWS
In a statement, the animal welfare organization recalled the incident during Super Typhoon Carina, when stray animals at the San Juan City Pound were allegedly left in their cages during heavy flooding.
“In light of the tragic incident in July 2024, where animals at the San Juan City Pound were left to drown in their cages during the flooding caused by Typhoon Carina, PAWS urges City Pound officials and staff to uphold their duty to ensure the welfare of impounded animals even and especially in times of crisis,” they noted.
PAWS urged city pounds to ensure their facilities comply with the Animal Welfare Act.
“PAWS has consistently reminded pet owners to look after the safety of their pets during disasters, ensuring they are never left behind. In the same way, LGU pounds must ensure their facilities comply with the Animal Welfare Act, which mandates that the animals in their care be kept safe from harm,” they continued.
PAWS emphasized that impounded animals must not left in their cages exposed to heavy rain and flooding and must be evacuated with the city pound’s staff when needed.
“We call on LGU pounds to always consider the animals in their care during times of disaster and crisis. In such dire events, the impounded animals must be evacuated alongside the pound’s staff or, if for any compelling reason evacuation with them is not possible, the humane option is to set these animals free from their cages so that they can swim to safety, rather than just leaving them trapped in danger,” the organization concluded.
In July, images of impounded animals trapped in their cages as floodwaters surged at the San Juan City Pound circulated, which alarmed several animal welfare organizations. The San Juan City government, on the other hand, said it launched an investigation into the incident.
PAWS also reminded pet owners to prioritize the safety of their beloved pets in times of disaster. The Tropical Storm Kristine made its landfall in Isabela province at 12:30 a.m. on October 24.
ALSO READ: PAWS PSA: Always Check Under Your Cars for Stray Cats Seeking Shelter From the Rain!
